Chapter 8: The Shadow of Fear**
With Evelyn locked in a holding cell awaiting a bail hearing, the grand manor fell into an uneasy silence. Yet, the physical removal of the villain did not erase the psychological wounds left behind.
Leo refused to leave his father’s bedroom. Every shadow on the wall made him flinch, and the simple sound of a closing door triggered panic attacks that left him gasping for air.
Julian canceled all business commitments for the foreseeable future. The corporate titan spent his afternoons sitting on the bedroom rug, building Lego towers with his son. But whenever Julian stood up to take a glass of water, Leo’s eyes filled with primal terror.
“Daddy, don't go,” the boy would whisper, his voice trembling. “Please don't leave.”
“I’m right here, buddy. I’m not going anywhere,” Julian would promise, his heart breaking afresh each time.
Maria came up every afternoon, bringing hot cocoa and homemade oatmeal cookies. Unlike the expensive treats prepared by the private chefs, Maria’s food carried the warmth of genuine care. She would sit quietly beside Leo, never forcing him to talk, simply humming soft lullabies from her hometown in Michoacán while folding laundry.
Gradually, Leo began to respond. He would lean against Maria’s arm, allowing her presence to soothe the persistent tremors in his small body.
One afternoon, while Julian was on the phone in the adjoining room, Leo looked up at Maria.
“Maria?” he asked quietly.
“Yes, little prince?” she replied with a gentle smile.
“Why did she hate me so much? Was I a bad boy?”
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Maria put down the linen she was holding and looked straight into Leo’s hazel eyes. “Listen to me, Leo. People who are empty inside try to steal the light from others. You have a very bright light. You did nothing wrong. Not a single thing.”
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